JOE Nuttall feeling Ewood Park was the best possible place for the next stage of his development was music to Tony Mowbray's ears.

The striker signed a new three-and-a-half year deal with the club to take him through to the summer of 2021.

Nuttall scored 10 times for the Under-23s before being promoted to the first-team where he has netted five times in 15 outings.

He arrived on trial in the summer, having previously been on the books of Manchester City and Aberdeen, but has found his feet in a Rovers shirt and Mowbray is excited to see the Bury-born youngster continue his development.

The boss said: “Joe Nuttall signing a new deal, I’m pleased because it’s dragged on a week or two.

“I’m pleased that this is where he sees his development and to become a regular first-team footballer.

“Joe burst onto the scene at Under-23 level and has now hopefully found an environment where he can flourish.

“We’re delighted that he sees this as the place to develop his career. I think that’s right for him.

“At Under-23s level he’s had some coaches in Damien and David that have helped him progress and he’s had some opportunities in the first-team, scored a goal or two and there are still aspects of his game that he needs to learn and develop.

“He’s still a young boy, but I’m pleased that he’s signed and this is the place he wants to be.”